There have been some contradictory data and opinions floating about regarding Army Major Nidal Hasan’s performance. On the one hand, he had a poor performance report, opposed the wars we are fighting, and may have posted jihad-sympathetic opinions online. On the other hand, he was still treating patients, was not being disciplined in any way, and was promoted to major in May.
What gives? Supply and demand. The wars we’re fighting now don’t create as many physical casualties as past efforts, but we have lots of troops in need of a shrink. If there were a long line of psychiatrists beating on the Army’s door to replace him, Hasan would have been gone long ago.
The same argument may be made more broadly to those who insist upon surrender in Iraq and Afghanistan because many of our troops have now made four or five deployments. Are they volunteering to replace the veterans? Are they encouraging their kids to enlist?
Those who create an artificial shortage can’t complain about it.
